Former Defender Back On The Pitch

Former Blackpool defender Marc Joseph was desperate to be involved in Sunday’s Hedzup Charity Shield, especially as he shares an office with the Pool manager.

Joseph now works for Blackpool FC Community Trust, along with Derek Spence, who is set to manage a team of ex-Blackpool professionals against a host of celebrities.

Preparations are well underway for the event, especially in the Blackpool camp.

“Derek is upstairs writing out the team sheets, and with me sharing an office with him I can push for a few more minutes,” joked Joseph. “The ex-pros will be up for playing the game in the right spirit, but no doubt about it Derek wants us to win the game.

“There is 30 odd ex-players who’ll be playing, and it will be a good event. Hopefully there will be a good crowd here, it’ll raise a lot of money and awareness for charity.”

The Bloomfield Road contest will be in aid of Alder Hey, Ronald McDonald House and Once Upon a Smile. The game will also be utilised to highlight the signs and symptoms of brain tumours affecting children.

“These kids are suffering, and making people more aware of brain tumours and how to spot them is important.

“Derek asked me if I wanted to play, and with it being for such a good cause I definitely wanted to be involved with the game.

“It’s important for raising money and for raising awareness for children with brain tumours. We are just highlighting things to look out for and letting people know there are others out there who can help."

Joseph made 25 appearances for The Seasiders between 2006 and 2007, and also played for the likes of Peterborough United and Hull City during his professional career, and is still involved in the game.

“Last year I was playing at Witton Albion, and finished off at Northwich Victoria at the end of the season. I’m 37 now, so I’m not too sure about next year, but I’ve been keeping myself fairly fit.

“The buzz of playing on a Saturday is hard to relinquish, that is something you want to do all the time. You can’t really beat playing football, so if my body still allows me to play then I will.

“It’ll be nice to be back at Bloomfield Road, obviously we have our offices there, but it’s nice to actually get out on the field and it’s all for a good cause,” said Joseph.